Children’s Paradise Montessori School (CPMS) founder Marivic Bathan had the amazing vision to implement alternative learning methods in her school, in anticipation of the raging Covid-19 pandemic which has wrought disastrous challenges to the educational system.
According to Bathan, the school has been conducting coaching programs for parents in order for the Montessori Method to be brought to children at home in the face of the present situation. In this method, the school gives online workshops, as they have had close collaboration with parents, even prior to the pandemic.
The goal was to create a Montessori environment at home, featuring a calm, nurturing setting which parents have been trained to do. This method develops the child to become self-directed, intrinsically motivated and an independent learner.
There are three elements in a Montessori education: The child, the environment and the trained adult/guide. This approach gives much respect to the child, by recognizing his natural characteristics. It is highly individualized as it validates the uniqueness of every child. It has to fit the child by providing for their needs at each stage of development. This is where the environment comes in, to bring ample space for movement. Last, there is an adult that links the child to the environment.
Developed by the first Italian lady physician, Dr. Maria Montessori, the Montessori education uses a child-focused approach. In a typical Montessori classroom, children of mixed ages are working either independently, or in small groups, using purposefully designed learning materials. The method encourages self-motivated growth for children and adolescents in all areas of their development: Cognitive, Emotional, Social and Physical.
At this point, let us wish the progressive school a happy 16th founding anniversary! And still counting!
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One of the last media events held at the Seda Ayala Center Cebu before the dreaded Covid-19 lockdown was a despedida lunch for concert pianist extraordinaire Ingrid Sala-Santamaria, who left for her home base, Manila.
The main dining hall was deserted, as the fear of the virus was horribly real. But the meal was superbly good. This was also an advance birthday treat for March celebrator Nelia Neri, whom we wish to be safe and healthy!